Zambia and the Republic of the Congo have formally withdrawn their representatives from the 75th Miss Universe pageant, citing United States travel restrictions that prevent their delegates from entering Puerto Rico. The withdrawals highlight the impact of Presidential Proclamation 10998, which took effect on January 1, 2026, and suspends or restricts visa issuance for nationals of 38 countries, including several in Africa. Because Puerto Rico is a US territory, all contestants must comply with American immigration requirements to attend the competition scheduled for November 24 in San Juan.
According to Punch, the Miss Universe Zambia organisation announced that Pamela Mubanga, a 25-year-old registered nurse crowned on October 8, could not secure the necessary travel authorisation. The organisation stated that her withdrawal was linked to the presidential travel restriction affecting Zambia and other African nations, rather than personal or organisational failures. The Republic of the Congo also withdrew its contestant, Georgina Kambongo, who was poised to become the country’s first Miss Universe representative. Premium Times reported that national organisers attributed her absence solely to the US restrictions.
Other African delegates face ongoing uncertainty. Roseanna Hall, Miss Universe Zimbabwe, has been attempting to obtain a visa from South Africa, where she has been residing. Hall told her followers that the fight to get Zimbabwe to Puerto Rico continues, noting that she was officially due to leave for the pageant on the day she posted her update. Nile Post reported that Hall expressed solidarity with other African contestants facing similar predicaments. Meanwhile, the Miss Universe South Sudan organisation commented on Hall’s video, stating there is a 50/50 chance their representative, Adut Deng, will make it to the competition.
Despite Nigeria being listed among the countries subject to partial restrictions, Miss Universe Nigeria 2026, Danielle Adewusi, arrived in San Juan on November 9. Premium Times noted that it remains unclear whether she entered under an exception, such as a visa issued before the restrictions took effect, or using an unaffected passport. Adewusi has since joined preliminary activities and expressed confidence in her preparations. She told Punch that she trusts her purpose and believes she has what it takes to win. The pageant’s national costume presentation is set for November 21, with the swimsuit and evening-gown segments following two days later.